Chase in England’s
starting line-up

CASTLEFORD Tigers half-back Rangi Chase (pictured) has been named England’s starting line up to face Exiles at Langtree Park on Saturday.

England coach Steve McNamara has today also confirmed debuts for Wigan Warriors winger Josh Charnley and Leeds Rhinos Carl Ablett who will both start, with Wigan forward Lee Mossop starting from the bench.

Warriors try machine Charnley - Stobart Super League’s leading try-scorer with 22 touchdowns so far this season - will partner Ablett on the right flank with Warrington Wolves centre Ryan Atkins, returning to the England set-up for the first time since October 2010, playing alongside Rhinos winger Ryan Hall on the left edge.

Hull FC’s Danny Tickle and Wigan duo Gareth Hock and Sean O’Loughlin have been selected in a new-look England back row.

Hull winger Tom Briscoe, St Helens’ Jon Wilkin and Huddersfield Giants’ pair Danny Brough and Leroy Cudjoe have missed the cut and will not feature in the clash.

“It has been a really tough decision in naming the 17 that will take on the Exiles,” said national coach McNamara.

“The four players who have missed out are disappointed and could’ve quite easily featured. That is the nature of international sport and it is gratifying that we have real quality in the squad that the likes of Tom Briscoe, Danny Brough, Jon Wilkin and Leroy Cudjoe miss out this time. They will respond and will be stronger for the experience.

“It is testament to the England Knights programme that Josh (Charnley) and Lee (Mossop) have come through the system to be part of the current elite squad. I’m looking forward to seeing some of the debutants involved. Josh (Charnley) has been in scintillating form with Wigan and deserves his place in the team. I have been very pleased with the partnership he is forging with Carl Ablett and they are looking a formidable pairing on the right.

“The make-up of the side looks very exciting, with the right blend of youth and experience. We are expecting a major test against the Exiles and the intensity, if last year’s match is anything to go by, will be like playing a test match against Australia or New Zealand. The fans will be in for a treat seeing the best players in our domestic competition go at it for the full 80 minutes. It will be a terrific contest.”